Essex Police have arrested three men following a daring theft of 81 air weapons from a lorry in Basildon.
Overnight Raid on Paycocke Road
The crime unfolded overnight between Thursday, 19 and Friday, 20 February, when thieves targeted a parked lorry on Paycocke Road. They made off with a haul of 81 low-powered air weapons, sparking a swift investigation by Basildon CID.
Police Strike Back with Early Morning Raids
Officers launched a series of simultaneous warrants in Aveley on Saturday morning. Three men, all in their 30s and from the local area, were arrested on suspicion of theft and remain in custody for questioning.
During the searches, police recovered 12 air weapons seized as evidence. Investigators are working to confirm if these are part of the stolen cache.
Investigation Ongoing – Police Urge Public to Help
The probe is still active as officers hunt for the remaining weapons. Authorities are urging anyone with information or who has been offered air weapons matching those stolen to come forward.